Tweety Carter's #1 Fan: Raegan Null

Raegan was quite excited to meet Tweety Carter, Baylor's star point guard, last Saturday after the Kansas State game. Thanks to Khalil Coltrain for inviting us to meet Tweety.

And thanks to Tweety for being so nice to Raegan!

Sic 'em Bears!

Wes Null

More Big News, Prayers, and Related Matters

Friends:

Good evening, all!  Did we have a great day of weather or what?!  It almost feels like spring.  I'm ready!

First off, let's thank the May family for bringing our donuts this week.  The Ericksons are on deck for next week.  Thanks for taking care of us, Vince and Mary!

BIG NEWS OF THE WEEK--THE COLTRAINS

Well, here's some news for those of you who weren't in class this morning.  We were joined (believe it or not!) by our friends Khalil and Leslie Coltrain.  Yes, yes, that's right.  They do indeed remain members of our class even though we haven't shared donuts and jokes with them recently.  As it turns out, the Coltrains have decided to make a move.  Khalil C. has taken a position as Director of Stadium Operations (I hope I'm getting that right) with the Corpus Christi Hooks.  Go Hooks!  I think I'll buy a team hat.  The Hooks are a Double A team (I hope I'm getting that right, also) that is part of the Houston Astros.  Let's say a big congratulations to Khalil and Leslie for this exciting news!  Of course, we are going to miss the Coltrains terribly.  In order to fill the considerable void they are leaving, Dana has agreed to begin singing in the praise band, the Hookhams will be hosting the annual crawfish broil this year, and Steve May will begin on Thursday as the next trainer of the Baylor men's basketball team (use some of that stuff that you have in those boxes in your garage, Steve).  

Seriously, the Coltrains have been with our church and class (yes, you have!) for about five years, as best I can remember.  All of us remember the births of Emma and Camden very well (Camden's birth, if I recall, was unforgettable for me in particular.  That was the first time that I have ever exited a hospital in a wheelchair.).  Leslie has done a beautiful job singing in the praise team.  I know the praise team will miss you, Leslie.  I don't have specific records, but, by looking around, I think our attendance shot up 30% as soon as you joined the team.  As for Khalil, I think it's worth noting that--as far as I know--Khalil, Aaron Bruce, and Matt Shepherd are the only people left with the Baylor men's basketball team from the difficult years of 2003 and 2004.  I think that says something about Khalil's character, his abilities as a trainer, and his overall positive spirit.  As I see the situation, Khalil deserves a great deal of credit for helping to rebuild Baylor's basketball program.  As a tenured professor, Khalil, I am deeply grateful for what you have done for the team and for Baylor in general.  Coach Drew has big shoes to fill.  

Let's be sure and pray for Leslie, Emma, and Camden while Khalil begins his new job.  He starts Thursday after the men's team returns from Colorado.  Pray for safe travel for Khalil as well.  Leslie, please let us know what we can do for you during this time of transition.  May God be with the Coltrains!

OTHER PRAYERS AND PRAISES

The Jantzes are getting closer to having everything finalized with their home in Tulsa.  Please pray for them as they finish things there and find themselves a home here.

Ben Sullivan has asked that we pray for the families of two men who were killed recently in a crane accident on the rig where he works.  This is very dangerous work, and we need to pray for Ben's safety as well.  Please pray for the families that have been impacted by these deaths.

We have good news with the Ramsdell baby.  Beth's check-up went well last week.  The baby has a great heartbeat!  Please continue to pray for health for the little baby and for Beth as well.  We also need to pray that Matt won't put on the "Fatherhood 20" that seems to have hit many of the rest of us during the past few years.  Matt, you don't have to gain wait as well!

The Hudsons are in Houston this weekend.  Please pray for their safe travel.

Salley Taylor has asked us to pray for her sister and brother-in-law.  They are traveling this weekend.

Franci, Robbie, and Carter Rogers are in Florida at spring training.  Pray for safe travel for them.

Pam Bartram's has asked us to pray for her father.  His red blood cell count has been very high, and he has shown signs of a potential stroke.  His name's Bill.  Please pray for better health for Bill.

Salley T. also would like for us to pray for her mom.  She's 83 and will be making the 7 hour drive home this week.  Not bad for an 83 year old!

We need to pray for Jennifer Owens' grandmother.  She isn't expected to make it through the week.  Please pray for comfort for Jennifer's entire family.

Jenny LaSeur would like for us to pray for her sister, Abby.  Abby has made some bad decisions during the past few years, which are now having a strong impact on her life.  Please pray for better decisions for Abby in the future.  Pray that God will be with her as she sorts out her life.

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I believe that takes care of our prayers and praises for this week.  And, get this.  We finished the Treasures of a Transformed Life book this morning!  Way to go, folks.  We worked our way through every page, thank you very much.  I wonder how many classes can say that?!  

For next week's class, we will return to the book we were studying before we received our copies of Treasures.  The book, you'll recall, is called The Perfect Leader.  Next Sunday morning, we will take a look at Chapter 8 (pp. 105-121).

Oh, I just remembered one more announcement.  Rumor has it that there will be a shower next Saturday for Jill VanZee, but Dana is waiting to hear back from Franci on planning.  As soon as the time is finalized, either Dana or Franci will send out an email to let everyone know.

Dana and I hope that all of you have a terrific week!  See you next Sunday.

Wes and Dana

 

Prayer Request from Mary Erickson

Friends:

Thank you for praying for Mary's Aunt.  See her message below.

Wes

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Hey Wes!
Could we add my Aunt Nellie to the prayer list?  I just found out this evening that she has been in the hospital a little over a week due to a fall, that resulted in a subdural hematoma, from her head hitting asphalt.  She had a pacemaker put in last week, most likely heart problems resulted in the blackout that caused her fall...  She is 89 and that of course is a factor in her recovery.  She will be in the hospital for at least another week, as they try to get her electrolytes back in balance and decide if surgery is required for the hematoma.  Her husband (my Uncle) has Alzheimer's (mild stage) but I'm sure it's difficult on my cousins - trying to be there for both of them.  They are in North Carolina.
Thanks!  I hope you have a good week!
Mary 

Big News!, Prayers, and Much More

Dear Friends:

Get this!  Beth and Matt Ramsdell are having a baby!  Yep, that's right.  Mr. Steve will be a granddaddy in the not too distant future.  Let's be sure to pray for Beth and this little baby.  Pray for health, strength, and good days for Beth and the little one.  We're praying for you, Beth and Matt!  They have an appointment this Tuesday to learn more.

I realize that was a bit out of order, but I thought I'd get the big news out first.  Now, on to other news, and then we'll return to prayers.

How about those VanZees!  On top of bringing their precious new little girl to church and class, they also brought the donuts.  Thanks, Brian and Jill!  I think you folks just set a dedication record!  (Okay, okay.  They had some help from Franci and Robbie, but, hey, they still came through!).  Next week, the Mays are in charge.  How about some of those new China Spring donuts, Steve?!

PRAYERS AND PRAISES

Please continue to pray for the VanZees, especially little Raelynn.

Stefanie Bunting stopped by today and asked us to pray for Wayne W. as he heads out to various schools this week to collect materials for the Peru trip.

We need to continue to pray for the Jantzes.  Things still look good on their home, but we need to pray that God will bring closure to the situation.  Let's pray that Loren, Jenny, and company will be full-time, full-fledged Central Texas residents soon!

Let's pray for Jennifer and Steve May as they settle into their new home.

Mary E. is continuing her search for a position here in Waco.  Please ask God to be with her this week as she meets and visits with people about possibilities.

Shelley B. is headed to New York City this week for work purposes.  Pray for her safe travel.  Pray, also, for Shawn while he's back at home with the youngsters.

Also on the Buhner front, we need to continue to pray for Shawn's parents.  They do have a nurse who is helping them some now, but they continue to need our prayers.

Kayla J. is off to Chicago this week for a work trip.  Pray for her safe travel, and also for Russ while he's back at home playing Daddy.

Jennifer Owens would like for us to pray for her grandmother.  She is not doing well and will be taken off dialysis this week.  Please pray for comfort for Jennifer's grandmother and for her entire family.

Bernie H. has a brother and sister-in-law who will be having a baby this week.  Please pray for a successful delivery and a healthy baby.

Last but not least, please continue to pray for Perry and Rhonda Glanzer.  Details here:

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I believe that takes care of our prayers and praises for this week.  Next Sunday, we will finish up the Treasures book by reading and discussing Chapters 36-41.  

What an exciting week for our class!  Thanks to all of you for praying for these important events in the lives of our friends.  Dana and I look forward to seeing all of you next Sunday morning.

Wes and Dana

Raelynn Susan VanZee!

Friends:

Look what God has delivered into the arms of the VanZees!  Raelynn Susan VanZee was born on Wednesday, Feb. 13, 2008, at 8:43 a.m. She weighed 8 lbs 4 oz and is 20 inches long.   On top of that, the VanZees even had Raelynn in church this morning!

Let's be sure to praise God for this very important and exciting event.  We have been praying with the VanZees for this day for many months and years.  We are so excited for you, Jill and Brian!  We need to pray for Raelynn during these important first days of her life.  Please pray for Breeley, the new big sister, as well during this time of transition.

Spread the word!

God is good!

Wes and Dana

Mays are Moved, Big News Sunday?!

Friends:

First of all, you should know that the May family has successfully made the move to their new home.  We finished unloading the final items this evening.  Their new home is beautiful.  Congratulations, Mays!  This means that Steve and Jennifer do not need any help tomorrow morning.  Tomorrow looks to be nothing but rain anyway!

Secondly, rumor has it that at least one of our couples may have some big, exciting news this Sunday.  You won't want to miss class this week!  How's that for an enticing preview?!

See you Sunday morning,

Wes and Dana

Baptisms, Prayers, Moves, and Lots of Other News

Friends:

Good evening, all!  Okay, okay, I missed the boat entirely with my Baylor vs. Kansas prediction.  But you can't say I don't have confidence in the Bears!  

We have lots and lots of prayers and news this week.  First off, let's thank Jenny and Matt LaSeur for bringing us the delicious snacks this morning.  Jenny brought us coffee cake.  Great stuff, Jenny.  Thank you!  Next week, Brian and Jill VanZee are in charge.  Thanks for taking care of us, VanZees!

PRAYERS AND PRAISES

To start off on the praise front, way to go McCrarys!  Rylie had a beautiful baptism this morning.  Let's praise God for this great decision by the McCrarys.  You guys looked great up there!

We need to pray for Shawn Buhner's parents.  They live in Houston.  Please pray especially for Shawn's mom.  She is not doing well physically and needs to move into an assisted living facility.  Shawn's dad's health is not good either.  Please pray for Shawn and his family as they make some difficult decisions this week about how to help Shawn's parents.  Pray for strength, wisdom, and courage for Shawn and health and understanding for his parents.

On the positive side for the Buhners, Shelley has been named an outstanding salesperson for Pfizer.  Let's congratulate Shelley on this great news!  Her hard work has paid off.  She also has been awarded a free trip to Hawaii (can you believe that?!).  Congratulations, Shelley!

Teresa Sullivan has a praise today that she is at last feeling better.  We also need to pray for Ben, who will come home on Tuesday.  Pray that he will have a good week at home with the Sullivan family.  As usual, let's pray for Ben's safety when he heads back to work in a couple of weeks.

We need to pray for Mary Erickson.  She is looking for a better position that will allow her to work here in Waco instead of driving every day.  Please pray that God will help Mary find a position that will best use her talents and will allow her to serve others at the same time.

We have some potential very good news on the Jantz front.  It looks as though they have a contract on their home in Tulsa, but things are not yet finalized.  Please pray that things will come to a closure (!) for the Jantz family soon.  Whether you like it or not Loren and Jenny, I have been praying that God would keep you guys here in Waco.  We are delighted that it looks as though you won't be moving after all!  (Plus, the Wildcat soccer season will be starting soon, and you don't want to miss that!).

Also with the Jantzes, we need to pray for Kenzie (sp?).  She came down sick yesterday, which kept her and Jenny home this morning.  Pray for Kenzie's complete and speedy recovery.

We now have some additional housing prayer work to do.  The Schneiders are not moving away, but they are moving to a new home here in town.  Please pray for Trey and Cathy as they go through the home-selling process as well.

Brad Burney will be having some surgery on his back soon.  Please pray that everything will go smoothly for him.  Believe it or not, the Burneys also will be making a trip to Hawaii this week.  That's right.  We discussed two Hawaii trips this morning.  Can you believe this?  How do I get on the Hawaii trip list?!  Regardless of your jealousy level, please pray for safe travel for the Burneys.

Last but not least, Vince E. has asked that we continue our prayers for his friends Cole and Iva.  Their little boy had eye surgery last week to remove a tumor.  The surgery seems to have gone well, but this little boy needs our prayers as he recovers.

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THE MAYS ARE MOVING!  WHO CAN HELP?

Steve and Jennifer May will be moving to their new home this Thursday, Friday, and Saturday (14th, 15th, and 16th).  Steve has rented a U-haul.  He says that he will be happy to have help from anyone, anytime during these three days.  I would like to invite anyone who can be there to meet me at the old May home at 617 Pebble Creek in Hewitt on Saturday, the 16th, at 8:30 a.m.  I hope that several of you can make it at this time.  Please consider helping the Mays in this way.  Jeff Hookham has agreed to specialize in towels and linens, and I will be specializing in pillows and socks.  Trey Schneider volunteered his services as a specialist in pianos, books, and TVs.  Way to go, Trey!  By the way, if I recall correctly, Steve has promised free donuts!

READING FOR NEXT WEEK

Finally, we will be discussing chapters 31-35 in Treasures next week.  Be sure to take a look at these chapters before next Sunday if you can.

I think that's all for now.  Dana and I hope that all of you have a great week.  See you next Sunday!

God bless,

Wes

Bears Prediction!, Tomorrow

Dear Friends:

I hope all of you are enjoying this beautiful weekend!  First, I would like to make a bold prediction.  I predict that the Baylor Bears will beat the Kansas Jayhawks tonight!  The Bears will win 77-76 with a last second 3-pointer by Tweety Carter.  You heard it here first, folks!  Let's enjoy this big victory.  Be sure to come to class in the morning so that we can rub this one in with Loren and Jenny J.

In other news, I want to remind you that we will be discussing chapters 26-30 in Treasures of a Transformed Life.  I hope you have a chance to read these chapters before tomorrow.

See you in the morning!

Wes

Good News from the McCrarys!

Friends:

Ashlee McCrary would like to add a praise that their little girl, Rylie, will be baptized next Sunday morning during the 9:30 service.  We'll look forward to the exciting event, Ashlee and David!

Wes

Prayers, Half-time, and Other Bidness

Friends:

Good evening, everyone!  Well, who knows, we may have a good game to watch after all.  First, I want to thank Sean and Stefany Goolsby for bringing our donuts this morning.  We appreciate it, folks!  Next week, Matt and Jenny LaSeur will be taking care of us.  Thanks, LaSeurs!

Let's go ahead and jump right to our prayers and praises.

PRAYERS

Please continue to pray for the Jantz family as they work to sell their Oklahoma home and look at other possibilities for Loren.  We're praying for you guys, Loren and Jenny.

Vince E. would like for us to continue our prayers for his friends Cole and Iva.  One of the little boys they keep will be heading in for surgery this week.  Pray that the surgery will go well.  Pray, also, especially for Cole during this difficult time.

We need to pray for Amy Nicholson's sister.  She has run into some difficulties with the tests she has been scheduled to take recently.  Pray that things will go more smoothly for her in the weeks ahead.  Pray, also, for some less stressful times for their family.

I would like to ask all of you to continue to pray for the Glanzer family, and especially for Rhonda.  You can find the details here.  Please pray for strength and patience for them.

David McCrary has asked that we pray for one of his friends, Rose.  Rose's mother was recently diagnosed with breast cancer.  Please ask God to be with Rose's family, and especially her mom, during this time.

Mary E. has asked that we pray for her as she looks for some new job possibilities in the not too distant future.  Ask that God will find a position where Mary can use all of her talents and abilities to serve other people and of course God as well.

We have two birthdays that we know about this week.  Steven Owens' birthday is today, and Matt LaSeur will celebrate his birthday on Tuesday (I think that's the right day!).  Please ask God to help these fellas to have a good day and look forward to another healthy, successful, and grace-filled year.

Last, I would like to ask for all of you to continue to pray that things will go well with my next big book project.  I received great news this week that my preferred publisher may very well be interested in the book.  If things go the way I think they may, I will be very excited about the publisher.  Please ask God to be present in this process.

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I believe that covers our prayers and praises for this Sunday.  If there are others, please send them along.  For next week, let's plan to discuss Chapters 26-30 in Treasures.

We hope that all of you have a great week!  See you next Sunday.

Wes and Dana

P.S.--Let's also pray for a big turnout for the Super Tuesday primary elections that will take place on Tuesday!  I have my favorite for the big elections coming up, and I hope that you do as well!

See You Tomorrow Morning, Read Through Chapter 25

Friends:

Dana and I look forward to seeing all of you in the morning.  We will be discussing Chapters 18-25 in Treasures of the Transformed Life.

See you then!

Wes